Homemade Kaju Katli: A Classic Indian Sweet Delicacy

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Cashews
  • 1/2 cup Sugar
  • 5 tbsp Water
  • 1/4 tsp Cardamom powder
  • 1 tbsp Ghee (clarified butter)
  • Silver vark (edible silver leaf), for decoration - optional

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by powdering the cashews in a blender or food processor until you get a fine powder. Ensure to not over-grind the cashews as they will begin to release oil.
  2. In a non-stick pan, add the sugar and water. Heat this mixture on a medium flame until the sugar completely dissolves.
  3. Continue to cook the sugar syrup until it reaches a one-string consistency. To test this, take a drop of the syrup between your thumb and index finger and pull apart. If a single thread forms, your syrup is ready.
  4. Lower the flame and add the powdered cashews to the sugar syrup. Mix it well to avoid any lumps. Continue stirring on low flame.
  5. Add the ghee and cardamom powder to the mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to leave the sides of the pan and forms a dough-like consistency.
  6. Transfer this dough onto a greased surface and let it cool slightly. Then, knead the dough lightly.
  7. Roll out the dough while it's still warm to about a quarter-inch thickness. If desired, apply the silver vark on top.
  8. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into diamond shapes using a sharp knife.
  9. Kaju Katli is ready to be served. Store in an airtight container.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Adding a pinch of saffron strands to the cashew mixture for a beautiful flavor and color.
  • Replacing cashews with almonds or pistachios to make Almond Katli or Pistachio Katli.
  • Using jaggery instead of sugar for a healthier alternative with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
  • Adding a teaspoon of rose water or kewra water to the mixture for a floral aroma.
  • Mixing in a tablespoon of milk powder to enhance the texture and add a creamy taste.
  • Making a vegan version by substituting ghee with coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • Creating flavored variations by adding cocoa powder, coffee powder, or strawberry essence to the cashew mixture.
  • Adding chopped dried fruits like raisins, dates, or figs to the dough for extra sweetness and texture.
  • Experimenting with different shapes like round discs or squares instead of traditional diamond-shaped cuts.
  • Using edible food coloring to create vibrant colored Kaju Katli, such as green, pink, or yellow.

Recipe overview

Kaju Katli, also known as Kaju Barfi, is a popular Indian sweet made with cashews, sugar, and ghee. Shimmering with a thin layer of edible silver leaf and cut into diamond shapes, these sweets are a highlight of festivals and special occasions. This recipe will guide you through the process of making Kaju Katli at home with simple ingredients and easy steps. Expect a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors and a smooth, fudge-like texture. With our guide, you can recreate this traditional sweet in your kitchen to share and enjoy with family and friends.

Common questions

  1. Can I use pre-ground cashew powder instead of grinding whole cashews? No, it is recommended to use whole cashews and grind them yourself for the best texture and flavor.
  2. What if I don't have cardamom powder? You can substitute it with a pinch of nutmeg powder or skip it altogether if you prefer.
  3. Is ghee necessary for this recipe? Yes, ghee adds flavor and helps in binding the mixture. However, if you don't have ghee, you can substitute it with an equal amount of melted unsalted butter.
  4. Can I reduce the amount of sugar? The amount of sugar is essential for the right sweetness and texture of Kaju Katli. It is not recommended to reduce the amount, as it may affect the consistency of the final product.
  5. Can I make Kaju Katli without using silver vark? Yes, the silver vark is optional and used for decorative purposes. You can choose to skip it if you prefer.
  6. How long can I store Kaju Katli? Kaju Katli can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A bowl to mix the powdered cashews, sugar syrup, and other ingredients.
  • Non-stick Pan - To cook the sugar syrup and cashew mixture without it sticking to the bottom.
  • Blender or Food Processor - To grind the cashews into a fine powder.
  • Greased Surface - A surface or plate greased with ghee to transfer and knead the dough.
  • Sharp Knife - To cut the rolled dough into diamond-shaped pieces.
  • Airtight Container - For storing the prepared Kaju Katli and keeping it fresh.

Origin stories

Kaju Katli, with its roots in the Indian subcontinent, is a beloved sweet treat often served during celebratory occasions like Diwali, the festival of lights. The name itself translates to a 'cashew slice', and while there's no definitive timeline as to when this decadent dessert came into being, it is well known that it was during the Mughal reign that the usage of dry fruits in Indian sweets became popular. Often adorned with a thin layer of edible silver leaf, Kaju Katli is said to have been a culinary symbol of wealth and prosperity, due to the high cost of its main ingredient, cashews, and its association with royal feasts. Today, this diamond-shaped delight is a must-have in many Indian households, bringing a sense of nostalgia and a shared bond of tradition.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.